Raw Hide is one of the most dangerous pet treats that are sold on the market. They come in many shapes and sizes - rolls, bones, knots, braids, donuts and more. Different types of glues are used to make these various shapes.
Firstly exactly what is Raw Hide?
It is normally advertised as a natural chew, but this statement cant be further from the truth! The real truth is that this so called natural treat is made from leftovers from the leather industry.
Here is how they manufacture raw hide.
1) Hides are placed in brine to slow them from decaying however they still can rot. Chemicals that are highly toxic to dogs and cats, such as ash-lye solution and sodium sulphide liming are used to remove any fats and hair.
2) More chemicals are used to puff up the hides
3)A solution of hydrogen peroxide / bleach is used to whiten, wash the hide and remove any nasty smells from decayed hides.
4) At this stage raw hides may be painted with titanium oxide, to make them look white and attractive. Other chemicals that they may use are FD&C Red 40, which causes allergies.
5) Now its time to make them last long on the shelves and preserved by adding chemicals such as formaldehyde or chromium salts
Besides the amount of chemicals that are used, dogs cannot digest them properly and can cause dogs to choke or cause a blockage. They can also get stuck in their oesophagus. This would lead to an endoscopy to locate the raw hide and immediate surgery to remove it. As they are not digested properly they can remain in the stomach for weeks on end and cause blockages later on.
At Betty's Raw Recipes we offer safe alternatives treats that your dog can enjoy, such as rabbit's ears, homemade jerkies, dehydrated green tripe, lamb trachea and much more.
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